MICHAEL BIRKETT LEUCHARS ARMY MEDIC CONVICTED OF ASSAULTING 12-YEAR-OLD BOY AT DUNDEE SHERIFF COURT

Staff Sergeant Michael Birkett, a military medic stationed in Leuchars, faced a series of court proceedings that revealed troubling incidents involving both a young boy and allegations of domestic abuse. The 42-year-old serviceman was brought before Dundee Sheriff Court to answer charges related to assault and misconduct, with the proceedings shedding light on a complex and troubling case.

According to court records, Birkett was found guilty of physically assaulting a 12-year-old boy. The incident involved Birkett striking the child on the leg, an act that left a visible handprint for approximately one week. The court heard that this was a singular incident, and Sheriff Mark O’Hanlon acknowledged that it was a one-off event. The sheriff also described the child as 'difficult,' which he suggested contributed to the decision to admonish Birkett rather than impose a harsher penalty. Despite the conviction, the sheriff emphasized that this was an isolated occurrence and did not reflect ongoing misconduct.

In contrast, Birkett was acquitted of an earlier allegation involving a 15-year-old boy from October 2019. The court found insufficient evidence to convict him of that incident. However, the conviction related to the younger boy involved a clear act of physical assault, with evidence presented that Birkett had struck the child, leaving a visible handprint that persisted for a week. The defense argued that a conviction could have serious repercussions for Birkett’s military career, which was a significant consideration during sentencing.

Beyond the assault case, the court also examined allegations of domestic abuse made against Birkett by a former partner. These allegations included disturbing claims such as placing a skeleton in her bed, calling her derogatory names, urinating on her, and engaging in other abusive behaviors. The ex-partner provided testimony describing ongoing coercive and abusive conduct, which painted a troubling picture of their relationship. Reverend Major Philip Francis also appeared as a witness, offering evidence of the couple’s support interactions. Despite these serious allegations, Birkett denied any misconduct, and the sheriff expressed skepticism regarding the credibility of the accuser, indicating that the evidence did not substantiate the claims beyond doubt.

In the end, Birkett was convicted solely of the assault involving the 12-year-old boy. The court did not find sufficient evidence to convict him on the domestic abuse charges or the allegations related to the 15-year-old. The sentence handed down was an admonition, reflecting the court’s view that this was a single, isolated incident rather than part of a pattern of behavior. The proceedings took place at Dundee Sheriff Court, where the judge emphasized the importance of accountability and the seriousness of physical assault, even if it was a one-time event.